Transom Epoxy sealer

July 14th, 2010, 11:00 PM

I bought a 1967 Starcraft boat, 15 foot Aluminum.
It had a plywood transom that was badly rotted. I have the new transom all cut and drilled to go in. I have heard I should coat the wood with epoxy to seal the wood and prevent future rot.
What kind of epoxy is normally used for this application.
Thanks in advance for any advise!

When they talk about epoxy sealer, it usually means this. However, I think that's overkill for your application. A few coats of exterior polyurethane should work just fine, and cost a lot less. Be especially generous on the edges, and coat the insides of any holes you drill though it.

Bob, Orange County NY
'88 Bayliner 1700 Capri Bowrider, 85 HP Force O/B, "Sea Weasel"
Want a vessel safety check? Click here. Want to join the Coast Guard Auxiliary? Click here.Disclaimer: Although I am a member of the USCG Auxiliary, the opinions and advice in my replies are my own and do not necessarily reflect CG or CG Auxiliary policy or regulations unless so specified.

Comment

There are many types of epoxy that would work to protect your transom. MAS is my favorite. System3, Gluvit, and West Systems would also work just fine. Sealing all surfaces & edges is very important. Any type of epoxy must be over-coated to ward off the effects of UV. A good spar varnish or paint should be applied over sanded epoxy.

Good Luck!

Dan Williams
Connecticut

22 1/2' Tri-Hulled Wooden Pontoon

Comment

Before you poly your edges go get some Tite Bond glue. It's made specificially for wood. Mix a 50-50 mixture of glue and water. Give it (the edges) a good coat and let it dry. Maybe an hour or two at most. Coat again. Let dry. 3 rd coat completely cover the ply. The glue and water will fill all the pores in the wood. Than apply a couple of coats of poly. I know some people will say the just poly it but the glue is like an insurance and only costs a couple of bucks at any box store.

Comment

Thanks for the responses. The only marine supply store nearby is West marine.
Is there a product they sell that would work. They carry a few different epoxies but I am not sure which would be best for this use.